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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Completely" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "completely", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

すっかり

すっかり (sukkari)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

うってかわって

うってかわって (uttokawatte)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "completely" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すっかり and うってかわって. In Japanese, すっかり (すっかり (sukkari)) is typically associated with "completely, entirely, all" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Adverb. Indicates something is entirely done, changed, or forgotten. Often implies a surprising or significant change. Emphasizes totality.. On the other hand, うってかわって (うってかわって (uttokawatte)) maps to "completely changed; entirely different; suddenly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to describe a sudden and complete change in situation, atmosphere, or someone's attitude. Often implies a dramatic shift.. A literal translation of "completely" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すっかり"
彼の病気はすっかり良くなった。
His illness got completely better.
Bilingual Context for "うってかわって"
昨日までの雨模様が、今日はうってかわって快晴だ。
The rainy weather until yesterday has completely changed to clear skies today.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "彼の病気は ___ 良くなった。" (Meaning: "His illness got completely better.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "すっかり" fits here because it means "completely, entirely, all" in the context of: "His illness got completely better.". "うってかわって" represents "completely changed; entirely different; suddenly".